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Thursday, August 4, 2016

The fact that a magnetized needle will always point North has fascinated me since I was a young boy. I still have this same fascination and love of orienteering and navigation today.

Do you know how to use a map and compass? Do you know how to find out which way is North, South, East or West without them? How's your sense of direction? Do you rely solely on your smart phone GPS to get you where you need to go? Why does any of this matter?

Well, honestly, it may not matter right now but some day it may, and likely will, be the only thing that matters to you at a particular moment. Have you ever experienced the panic of not knowing where you are? Maybe you have when you were a small child but as an adult there's no reason to have that experience, especially when other people are counting on you. Knowing some basic navigation skills can keep you calm especially in an otherwise stressful situation. Practice them the next time you have somewhere to go that you haven't been before. Buy an inexpensive compass if you don't already have one and start learning. Yes, Wal-Mart has basic compasses in their outdoor and camping section of the store. I'd bet you have an Amazon Prime membership already. I prefer a Sunnto or Silva brand compass. Start with a 'map compass' and learn how to use it with a map and in the field. Like this one...

Honestly, I hardly ever use a compass anymore. I believe that is because I have been practicing and honing my sense of direction and map reading skills and applying them in the field for most of my life so far. I am continually aware of where I am in relation to my surroundings and, like a GPS set to take you to a particular location, and constantly making adjustments to stay on course.

The resources available on line are plentiful so I won't regurgitate them in this blog post.

Take some time to learn about triangulation. declination, magnetic north vs. true north and how to follow a bearing. Learn how figure out directions without a compass by watching the sun and the stars. Then learn advanced skills such as how to use hand rails, backstops, base lines, aiming off and blazing.

Not only is learning to navigate a fun activity but also builds confidence when you are away from home in an unfamiliar place.

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The purpose of this site is to provide you with information about what I have learned, my experience, and what my motivations are as a Prepared Guy. I have always felt driven to be ready for any situation by something powerful deep inside me. Being prepared has always served me well. I feel compelled to help others do the same.